12 Dinner Foundations Every Cook Needs

Every great dinner starts with a solid foundation. Knowing a few basic dinner recipes can make meal planning and cooking much easier. These essential recipes give you the building blocks for endless meal options, saving you time and energy during the week. With a few go-to staples, you’ll be able to whip up a variety of satisfying meals without the stress. Whether you’re a beginner or experienced in the kitchen, these foundational recipes will make dinner a breeze.

Pasta Carbonara

Two plates of spaghetti carbonara topped with grated cheese and bacon bits, set on a white marble surface. A striped cloth is partially visible in the background. — Pasta Carbonara. Photo credit: Easy Everyday Food.

Pasta Carbonara is a classic that delivers rich flavors with little effort. The creamy sauce and crispy pancetta make each bite a delightful experience. This dish is perfect for any occasion, from a laid-back family dinner to a special night at home. Get the recipe: Pasta Carbonara

Pork Lo Mein

A bowl of stir-fried noodles with vegetables and tofu on a white wooden surface. Ingredients include carrots, red peppers, leafy greens, and sprinkled sesame seeds. A pair of chopsticks rests on the bowl's edge. — Pork Lo Mein. Photo Credit: Easy Everyday Food.

Pork Lo Mein is a savory and satisfying meal that’s quick and easy to prepare. This one-pot dish combines tender pork, noodles, and fresh vegetables in a flavorful sauce that will keep you coming back for more. It’s the perfect dinner when you need something hearty with minimal cleanup. Get the recipe: Pork Lo Mein

Lasagna Soup

Lasagna Soup gives you all the comforting flavors of lasagna but with far less effort. Packed with savory ingredients, this one-pot meal provides the hearty satisfaction of the classic dish without the layers. It’s a quick and delicious solution for when you crave lasagna but don’t want to spend too much time in the kitchen. Get the recipe: Lasagna Soup

Broccoli Cheddar Soup

A spoonful of broccoli soup is being served from a bread bowl. The soup contains visible broccoli florets and shredded carrots. In the background, a fresh broccoli head is partially visible on a marble surface. — Broccoli Cheddar Soup. Photo credit: Easy Everyday Food.

Broccoli Cheddar Soup is the ultimate comfort food, blending creamy cheese and the healthy crunch of broccoli. This soup offers both rich flavor and a heartwarming experience in each spoonful. It’s a perfect meal to enjoy when you want something cozy and fulfilling. Get the recipe: Broccoli Cheddar Soup

Mac and Cheese Casserole

A plate of creamy macaroni and cheese with a golden breadcrumb topping sits on a wooden table. A baking dish with more macaroni and cheese and a white cloth can be seen in the background. — Mac and Cheese Casserole. Photo credit: Easy Everyday Food.

This mac and cheese casserole brings comfort and satisfaction in every bite. It’s a cheesy, creamy dish that’s ideal for family meals, holidays, or a cozy evening at home. You can count on it to be a crowd-pleaser that everyone will enjoy. Get the recipe: Mac and Cheese Casserole

Sheet Pan Beef and Broccoli

Sheet Pan Broccoli and Beef on a baking dish — Sheet Pan Broccoli and Beef. Photo credit: Easy Everyday Food.

Sheet Pan Beef and Broccoli is an easy, one-pan dinner that’s packed with flavor. With tender marinated steak and roasted broccoli, this meal makes cleanup a breeze while delivering a delicious, satisfying dinner. Perfect for busy weeknights when you want a no-fuss, tasty meal. Get the recipe: Sheet Pan Beef and Broccoli

Crusted Chicken Romano

A breaded and fried chicken cutlet is garnished with parsley and served on a white plate, placed on a patterned tablecloth. — Crusted Chicken Romano. Photo credit: Easy Everyday Food.

Crusted Chicken Romano brings a delightful twist to traditional chicken with a crispy, golden coating. The panko breadcrumbs and Romano cheese create a satisfying crunch and rich flavor, making it a perfect dinner option for any night of the week. It’s a simple dish that feels special. Get the recipe: Crusted Chicken Romano

Cheesy Chicken Enchilada Skillet

A skillet filled with a dish topped with melted cheese, sliced jalapeños, avocado, chopped cilantro, and a red sauce. There are colorful bell peppers and diced onions mixed with quinoa beneath the toppings. — Cheesy Chicken Enchilada Skillet. Photo credit: Easy Everyday Food.

This Cheesy Chicken Enchilada Skillet is a one-pan wonder, loaded with flavor and cheesy goodness. Tender chicken, zesty enchilada sauce, and melted cheese come together for a meal that’s both quick and satisfying. It’s a great choice when you want a flavorful dinner without the mess of multiple dishes. Get the recipe: Cheesy Chicken Enchilada Skillet

Sticky Wings

A plate of glazed chicken wings garnished with sesame seeds and sliced green onions. The wings are served on a blue plate, set on a white marble surface. A blue cloth is visible in the background. — Sticky Wings. Photo credit: Easy Everyday Food.

Sticky Wings are the perfect balance of sweet and savory, making them irresistible. Coated in a mouthwatering sauce with a caramelized finish, these wings are a great choice for any occasion, from game day to family dinners. They’re sure to be a hit with everyone. Get the recipe: Sticky Wings

Ham and Cheese Wraps

Tortilla pinwheels filled with ham, cheese, and vegetables are cut in half and served on a marble surface. A small white bowl of dipping sauce is nearby. Garnished with chopped herbs. — Ham and Cheese Wraps. Photo credit: Easy Everyday Food.

Ham and Cheese Wraps are a simple, yet tasty meal that’s full of flavor. The combination of savory ham, creamy pimento cheese, and soft tortillas creates a satisfying bite every time. This easy dish is great for a quick lunch or dinner. Get the recipe: Ham and Cheese Wraps

Chicken Teriyaki and Vegetables

Sheet pan with roasted chicken pieces, broccoli, red bell peppers, and red onions glazed in a thick, glossy sauce. The vegetables and chicken are caramelized, creating a vibrant, appetizing dish. — Chicken Teriyaki and Vegetables. Photo credit: The Happy Body Project.

Chicken Teriyaki and Vegetables offers a perfect balance of sweet and savory flavors. The tender chicken and crisp veggies, all drizzled with a homemade teriyaki sauce, make for a flavorful, satisfying meal. This dish is ideal when you’re craving something tasty and easy to prepare. Get the recipe: Chicken Teriyaki and Vegetables

Honey Mustard Chicken

A plate with four pieces of glazed, seasoned roasted chicken thighs garnished with fresh green leaves. The plate is on a woven mat with utensils nearby, creating a rustic table setting. — Honey Mustard Chicken Thighs. Photo credit: Easy Everyday Food.

Honey Mustard Chicken combines savory and sweet flavors in a simple, yet satisfying dish. The combination of Dijon mustard and honey makes a delicious marinade that transforms chicken into a flavorful meal. This easy recipe is sure to become a family favorite. Get the recipe: Honey Mustard Chicken